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In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes Mindy Walker, executive editor of The Week Junior, to spotlight their Summer of Reading initiative and the new "50 Books Kids Love Most" list. Mindy explains that The Week Junior is a weekly, kid-focused print magazine delivered right to families' homes, covering everything from breaking news and history to science, puzzles, recipes, and world records. For their summer reading list, Mindy and her team turn to the real experts—kids themselves. More than 200 young readers across the U.S. voted for their favorite books, resulting in a list packed with award-winning titles, hit series, and books that have been adapted for film and TV. Mindy highlights the power of peer recommendations, the rise of graphic novels and novels in verse, and introduces a new "Legendary Series" category featuring enduring favorites like Wings of Fire. She and Jed talk about modeling reading at home, the importance of pleasure reading in the summer, and why parents still love seeing a print magazine on the coffee table instead of another screen. Later, Jed chats with Cathy Goldberg Fishman about A Walk in the Forest: A Counting Book for Little Tree Huggers, a global celebration of trees, diverse cultures, and early numeracy for toddlers and preschoolers. The episode wraps with Laurie Duersch, author of The Book Machine, a playful picture book about a kid who learns that no machine can replace human imagination. Laurie and Jed explore creativity, boredom, and raising kids who make their own stories in an AI-saturated world.
The BBC puts Doctor Who out to tender - no Christmas special, no Russell T Davies, no Bad Wolf. Broadcast's Insight Editor Rebecca Cooney on what's really been going on behind the TARDIS doors.Also on the show: how do you explain the world to an eight-year-old? Vanessa Harriss, editor of The Week Junior, on the healthy business of children's media - and why kids still want it in print.All that plus: ITV, Channel 4 and Sky tell the BBC to stop paddling up Schitt's Creek... Rhodri Talfan Davies lands the deputy DG job... and, in The Audio Network Media Quiz, everybody's moving house.The Media Quiz is sponsored by Audio Network. Ben selected the music to for this episode and he and the team can do it for you too at audionetwork.comWe record at Podshop Studios - for 25% off your first booking, use the code MEDIACLUB at podshoponline.co.uk/services/podcast-studioBecome a member for FREE when you sign up for our newsletter at themediaclub.comA Rethink Audio production, produced by Matt Hill with post-production from Podcast Discovery.What The Media Club has been reading this week:BBC puts Doctor Who out to tender; Christmas special scrappedITV, C4 and Sky call for BBC to cut back on international acquisitionsRhodri Talfan Davies named BBC Deputy Director-GeneralGoalhanger tops Sunday Times fastest-growing companies listTony Livesey to step back from BBC radio showMehdi Hasan launches Zeteo in the UKOnly Murders in the Building moves to London for series sixKarl Warner to relocate to LA for BBC Studios global creator roleMiss Me? leaves the BBC to go commercial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode, Bex is joined by Week Junior writers Eve and Joe to explore the biggest stories from the latest issue, including: The Week Junior Book Awards 2026: Find out which books made the shortlist, how judging works, and how YOU can vote for your favourite book cover and Children's Choice Award! Get all the voting details and your chance to win a big bundle of books. A Teeny Octopus Discovery: Hear about the newly discovered, golf-ball-sized octopus off the Galápagos Islands, including its remarkable colour and name. Big Debate: Is it okay to miss school for sport? With huge sporting events coming up, including the World Cup, the team tackles whether skipping class for sports is a good idea, and your opinions are wanted! Get involved: Send your voice notes, share your opinions on the big debate, and tell us what you’ve been doing with The Week Junior! Visit funkidslive.com/theweekjunior or email hello@theweekjunior.co.uk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Text Kristen your thoughts or feedback about the showWhat does it take to build something parents trust—and kids actually love?In this episode, I'm joined by Andrea Barbalich, Editorial Director of The Week Junior, a weekly news magazine designed to help kids ages 8–14 understand what's happening in the world in a way that's thoughtful, engaging, and age-appropriate.Andrea shares the behind-the-scenes story of launching The Week Junior in the U.S. in March 2020—right as the world shut down—and what it took to build a brand from the ground up in the middle of uncertainty (and plenty of skepticism about print). From hand-selecting her team to establishing the editorial voice and rhythm of a weekly 32-page publication, she walks through the real decisions that shaped the magazine from day one.We also talk about the responsibility of covering complex, often difficult news topics for children, and how her team approaches that work with care—focusing on clarity, balance, and trust. That trust, built with both kids and parents, has been a key part of the magazine's growth and impact.This conversation goes beyond publishing. It's about intentionality, leadership, and what it looks like to build something that truly makes a difference—something that sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and stays with people long after they experience it.Connect + Learn More: Subscribe to The Week Junior: theweekjunior.com/subscribe Follow along @TheWeekJuniorUS on Instagram and LinkedInIf you've ever wondered whether the systems running your business are actually helping—or quietly making things heavier—this might be a good place to start. I offer backend systems audits for both 17hats and Flodesk that review what's working, what's fragile, and what deserves your attention next. Learn more at kristenlettini.com/audits.
Bex is joined by Eve and Joe from The Week Junior, the magazine making sense of the world for 8–14-year-olds. Discover a massive German landscape being turned into sparkling lakes from abandoned coal mines. Plus, Joe tries to stump Bex with the weirdest Real or Rubbish story yet: can mayonnaise really be used to make music?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where the biggest artists in the music industry were recognised at the Grammys, and Dame Sarah Mullaly officially became the Archbishop of Canterbury, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that entertained and interested The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where a very powerful storm swept across the US and Japan's pandas returned to China, we're going to be talking about some of the other stories that entertained and interested The Week Junior team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where global ocean protection rules came into force, and a medieval ship was found off the coast of Denmark, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that entertained and interested The Week Junior team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where tourists were stranded in Lapland due to freezing temperatures and the world’s latest tech was showcased at a special event in Las Vegas in the US, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that entertained and interested The Week Junior team. We’ll be talking about the National Year of Reading, an amazing new discovery in Wales and retro vs modern tech.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where resident doctors started a five day strike in England and a pantomime horse race took place in London, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team. We’re also going to be hearing an exclusive interview with the stars of Percy Jackson and the Olympians!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Ukraine’s president visited Downing Street and the Sports Personality of the Year nominees were announced, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games was announced and the Winter Olympics flame was lit in Greece, we're going to be hearing what other stories entertained Eve, Joe and the rest of the Week Junior team! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where chancellor Rachel Reeves revealed the autumn budget and COP30 talks came to an end, we're going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where the Deaflympics began and World Children’s Day was observed, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Scott sat down with his Lawfare colleagues Natalie Orpett, Eric Columbus, and Molly Roberts, to talk through the week's big national security news stories, including:“I Don't Think You're Ready for the Shutdown.” The record-setting shutdown of the U.S. government is set to come to an end after eight Democratic senators agreed to a continuing resolution that will fund all of the government through January 30, certain chunks of the government all the way through the end of the fiscal year, and made a number of concessions along the way. What should we make of this deal, and what are the political ramifications—particularly for Democrats, many of whom are quite angry at those who ultimately voted for this plan?“Overt Acts.” Last week, in a move quite publicly celebrated by his controversial clemency czar Ed Martin, President Trump issued pardons for dozens of individuals accused of participating in efforts to manipulate the results of the 2020 election in his favor, including his former attorney Rudy Giuliani and other alleged “unindicted co-conspirators” in his own, since-abandoned federal criminal prosecution. Indeed, Trump himself was the only one who was federally indicted for 2020 election manipulations, making the most immediate legal effect of these pardons unclear. What is Trump trying to accomplish in issuing them? And what could the ramifications be for future elections?“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Even as his prosecutions against James Comey and Letitia James have faced headwinds, the Trump administration appears to be moving full speed ahead with criminal investigations against other of his perceived enemies—including a large-scale investigation into government reports alleging Russian support for Trump in 2016 that was recently transferred from Justice Department officials in Eastern Pennsylvania to the more Trump-friendly terrain of Southern Florida. What is the current state of the revenge campaign the Trump administration has been pursuing, and where does it seem set to lead?In object lessons, Natalie is appreciating both “The History of the New Yorkers Vaunted Fact Checking Department” and the small army of neurotic geniuses who march forward in pursuit of journalistic integrity. Eric is appreciating The Week Junior, his daughter's favorite magazine that proves real journalism isn't just for grown-ups. Scott is appreciating The Far Side's online presence, updated daily—a reminder that the line between journalism and cartooning is always thinner than we'd like to admit. And Molly is appreciating an “illuminating” visit to Glenstone, where Jenny Holzer's art reads like journalism etched in light, documenting the lingering shadows of some dark subjects.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Scott sat down with his Lawfare colleagues Natalie Orpett, Eric Columbus, and Molly Roberts, to talk through the week's big national security news stories, including:“I Don't Think You're Ready for the Shutdown.” The record-setting shutdown of the U.S. government is set to come to an end after eight Democratic senators agreed to a continuing resolution that will fund all of the government through January 30, certain chunks of the government all the way through the end of the fiscal year, and made a number of concessions along the way. What should we make of this deal, and what are the political ramifications—particularly for Democrats, many of whom are quite angry at those who ultimately voted for this plan?“Overt Acts.” Last week, in a move quite publicly celebrated by his controversial clemency czar Ed Martin, President Trump issued pardons for dozens of individuals accused of participating in efforts to manipulate the results of the 2020 election in his favor, including his former attorney Rudy Giuliani and other alleged “unindicted co-conspirators” in his own, since-abandoned federal criminal prosecution. Indeed, Trump himself was the only one who was federally indicted for 2020 election manipulations, making the most immediate legal effect of these pardons unclear. What is Trump trying to accomplish in issuing them? And what could the ramifications be for future elections?“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Even as his prosecutions against James Comey and Letitia James have faced headwinds, the Trump administration appears to be moving full speed ahead with criminal investigations against other of his perceived enemies—including a large-scale investigation into government reports alleging Russian support for Trump in 2016 that was recently transferred from Justice Department officials in Eastern Pennsylvania to the more Trump-friendly terrain of Southern Florida. What is the current state of the revenge campaign the Trump administration has been pursuing, and where does it seem set to lead?In object lessons, Natalie is appreciating both “The History of the New Yorkers Vaunted Fact Checking Department” and the small army of neurotic geniuses who march forward in pursuit of journalistic integrity. Eric is appreciating The Week Junior, his daughter's favorite magazine that proves real journalism isn't just for grown-ups. Scott is appreciating The Far Side's online presence, updated daily—a reminder that the line between journalism and cartooning is always thinner than we'd like to admit. And Molly is appreciating an “illuminating” visit to Glenstone, where Jenny Holzer's art reads like journalism etched in light, documenting the lingering shadows of some dark subjects.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In a week where people marked Remembrance Day and Wales welcomed a new Archbishop, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Chancellor Rachel Reeves gave a major speech ahead of the Budget and a rare diamond was unearthed in Botswana, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Comic Con took place in London and Japan launched a spacecraft to the International Space Station, we’re going to be talking about some of the other stories that inspired and entertained The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's a special spooky edition of the Week Junior Show! Bex and The Week Junior team discuss a gem theft from a French museum, a top architecture award and a boy who's raising awareness of having a stammer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week Bex and The Week Junior team discuss whether AI actors are a good idea, and how green turtles are making a big comeback! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed a peace deal, and firefighters tackled a blaze on Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where some sacred jewels were returned to India, and there was a powerful earthquake in Russia, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week that saw Donald Trump visit Scotland and the Dog Surfing Championships take place in Dorset, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where the Tall Ships Races took place in Aberdeen and Island Games in Orkney drew to a close, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where the Wimbledon tennis championships came to an end and the UK and France agreed a new boats plan, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where experts revealed an ancient study in Peru and Texas in the US experienced flash floods, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories, events and people that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Beamish museum won the Museum of the Year Award and a DR Congo peace deal was agreed, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories, events and people that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where world leaders met for a NATO summit in the Netherlands and a volcanic eruption in Indonesia disrupted flights, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories, events and people that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where protests against tourism took place in Europe, and a collection of gold coins in France sold for a fortune, find out the other stories, events and people that inspired The Week Junior team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to the latest episode of Book Worms! Get ready, book lovers we have a very special episode installed for you this week!It’s time to celebrate the stories and storytellers that have captured the hearts andimaginations of young readers across the UK – with The Week Junior Book Awards! First up, it’s Deborah Meaden Talks Money, in the running for Factual Book of theYear. Ever wondered where money comes from—or how to make it work for you?Deborah shares fun stories and smart advice on saving, spending, and even startinga business. Next, up for Poetry Book of the Year, it’s Tomorrow We Begin by MattGoodfellow—funny, honest poems that feel like a diary about growing up. Finally, up for Cover of the Year, it’s A Head Full of Magic by Sarah Morrell—aboutFleur, who’s dealing with bullies, family drama… and the surprise discovery that shecan talk to animals! To find out more, check out the full shortlist, and get involved, headto theweekjuniorbookawards.co.uk – because every reader deserves to be part ofthe story! That's all on this week's episode of Fun Kids Book Worms!Join Fun Kids Podcasts+: https://funkidslive.com/plusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where the UK government announced that 500,000 extra pupils in England would get free school meals and the World Crazy Golf Championships took place, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories, events and people that inspired The Week Junior team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Poland elected a new president and Ncuti Gatwa said farewell to Doctor Who, we’re going to be discussing some of the other stories, events and people that inspired The Week Junior team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a week where Romania chose a new president and the new Lilo & Stitch film landed in cinemas, the team behind The Week Junior discuss some of the other stories, events and people that inspired them this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's a week where the US and the UK agreed a new trade deal and authors and illustrators were celebrated at the British Book Awards. Plus, we're going to be discussing some of the other stories, events and people that inspired the Week Junior team this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Bex is joined by Joe and Eve from The Week Junior to unpack the biggest, silliest, and most heartwarming stories making headlines. From VE Day to very loud lion impressions! Get involved:
We're going to be talking about the world's biggest iceberg, finding out how a man's blood saved millions of lives, and having a big debate on whether poems are better than stories. We'll also be hearing an interview with 12-year-old Week Junior reader Lyra, who recently raised more than £1,700 for cat's protection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're going to be talking about the winner of the Week Junior's Christmas cover competition, the Strictly Come Dancing final, and we're going over the upcoming Wallace and Gromit film as well. We're also going to be having a big debate about whether it's okay to sing at the cinema.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we're diving into an exciting list of experience gifts, subscription kits, board games, and more—perfect for adding fun to your homeschool days while sparking new learning adventures! We timed this episode to coincide with the winter holidays, but you'll find ideas for birthdays and other celebrations throughout the year as well. If there's ever been an episode to share with friends and family, this is it! Here are some links to the items we discussed in our episode: Outschool gift cards: https://bit.ly/3UA5mUQ Ancestry: https://www.kiwico.com/ 23&Me: https://www.kiwico.com/ Kiwi Crate: https://www.kiwico.com/ Crunch Labs: https://www.crunchlabs.com/ Schoolhouse Discoveries: https://www.schoolhousediscoveries.com/ Universal Yums: https://www.universalyums.com/ Coin and Current Club: https://www.coinandcurrencyclub.com/ Creation Crate: https://creationcrate.com/ Mel Science: https://melscience.com/US-en/ The Week Junior: https://theweekjunior.com/ OLYA: https://oyla.us/ Letter Tycoon: https://a.co/d/im364oo Code Break: https://a.co/d/5nXQHmn Bananagrams: https://amzn.to/3YL5OlN Scrabble: https://amzn.to/48KhYyJ Trivial Pursuit: https://amzn.to/3BeJTK7 Money Bags: https://amzn.to/3AnDD2P Magna Tiles: https://amzn.to/3ZuowyR Wikki Stix: https://amzn.to/3XFGOM7 ((Hey there! Just a quick note.... sometimes, but not always, we share affiliate links. We only share products we use and love! It doesn't cost you anything extra to order through our link, but it does help support our podcast. We appreciate your help! )) Let's continue the conversation on Patreon! We host live meet-ups 2x/month and can't wait to meet you. Join here: https://bit.ly/3X5R0gIHomeschoolers love a good rabbit hole! Dig in deeper with our helpful links: https://linktr.ee/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Would you like personalized coaching from Meagan or Amanda (or both)???? We offer consultation services. Feel free to take a look at our respective bios and book a time that is convenient for you.https://calendly.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredCome hang out with us! Join our FB group for fun and support:https://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolmomsunfiltered Let's be friends!!! Follow us on social media for giveaways and updates!!IG: https://www.instagram.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered/TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@homeschoolmomsunfiltered?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcFB: https://www.facebook.com/homeschoolmomsunfilteredLove Homeschool Moms Unfiltered and want to show your support? https://www.buymeacoffee.com/homeschoolmomsunfiltered
Don't miss your chance to rock the vote with this special election episode of Two Whats?! And A Wow! as Guy and Mindy share election HOWs and WOWs, and kid readers of The Week Junior call in to share their WOWs! Grownups, want more resources for the election? Visit tinkercast.com/election for activities and more!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This week, we chat the Week Junior Book Awards, sea creatures that work together as a team, and the recent X Games in Japan. We've also got an exclusive interview with the stars of the upcoming film, Transformers One. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lee and Peter announce a special story spark for season 7 in partnership with the Week Junior. Grownups, your family can try six issues of The Week Junior risk-free by visiting theweekjunior.com/storypirates
In this episode of the Week Junior show, host Bex is joined by Laura and Eve to discuss various topics, including an inspiring role model, a historic discovery made by two sisters, and the intriguing ways dogs remember their toys. They also engage in a debate about AI teachers!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bex is joined by Kate and Eve from the Week Junior magazine. They discuss various topics including community efforts to rebuild after unrest in the UK, Olympic achievements, and a Scottish bog receiving World Heritage status! They also delve into a debate about whether it's ethical to swim with wildlife.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we learn all about the Week Junior reader survey on politics, what makes the best biscuit crunch and should we have bright packaging on treats? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Drew and Ross Mathews are teaming up with The Week Junior to highlight some amazing junior Drew-gooders like the 13-year-old who created crayons to reflect every skin color. Alex Edelman is telling Drew all about his one-man show "Just For Us".See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Listen in as I interview Natalie and we create our own ridiculous story. And be sure to check out The Week Junior's Summer of Reading Book List and see if you can read more books than me this summer!
Bex is at the Week Junior's Christmas Party discussing their favourite stories of the year! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Tim and Master Momo as they jump into another exciting issue of The Week Junior! Click here to try six risk-free issues of The Week Junior.
Join Master Momo and Ninja Tim as they explore the pages of The Week Junior for the best news. And click here to get six risk-free weeks of The Week Junior.